Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Abbotsford

Anke Bezuidenhout
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with clients seeking support for life transitions and adjustments; anxiety, stress and low mood; neurodivergence ( ASD and ADHD), attachment and relationship patterns; values, identity exploration, and self-understanding.
I use an integrative approach tailored to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, IPT, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with clients seeking support for life transitions and adjustments; anxiety, stress and low mood; neurodivergence ( ASD and ADHD), attachment and relationship patterns; values, identity exploration, and self-understanding.
I use an integrative approach tailored to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, IPT, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
View
Soul Village Therapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Maybe you’ve spent a lot of time trying to understand yourself. You know where some of your patterns come from and might find yourself thinking, “I know this isn’t rational,” “Why am I still affected by this?” or “I should be able to handle this by now” — yet knowing that doesn’t always change how you feel. You may also be someone who makes space for everyone else, while questioning whether your own feelings or needs are too much. Sometimes insight is only part of the picture. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to minimise your experience or worry about taking up too much space.
Maybe you’ve spent a lot of time trying to understand yourself. You know where some of your patterns come from and might find yourself thinking, “I know this isn’t rational,” “Why am I still affected by this?” or “I should be able to handle this by now” — yet knowing that doesn’t always change how you feel. You may also be someone who makes space for everyone else, while questioning whether your own feelings or needs are too much. Sometimes insight is only part of the picture. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to minimise your experience or worry about taking up too much space.
(03) 8771 4554 View (03) 8771 4554
Sharon Wells
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes working with all of life's challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness.
My expertise covers the full spectrum of life's challenges, from relationship difficulties & dissatisfaction, to severe & complex mental illness in the public system. Specialist expertise incl personality disorders, anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, & eating disorders. Sharon has a special understanding of those experiencing chronic illness and disability.
My experience includes working with all of life's challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness.
My expertise covers the full spectrum of life's challenges, from relationship difficulties & dissatisfaction, to severe & complex mental illness in the public system. Specialist expertise incl personality disorders, anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, & eating disorders. Sharon has a special understanding of those experiencing chronic illness and disability.
(03) 7003 2107 View (03) 7003 2107
Rose Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I am passionate about working with adults who struggle with trauma, autism, OCD, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, & LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I take a relaxed & gentle approach to therapy sessions whilst remaining focused & analytical. I believe that therapy should be a safe space where you can show up exactly as you are & be met with warmth & compassion.
I am passionate about working with adults who struggle with trauma, autism, OCD, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, & LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I take a relaxed & gentle approach to therapy sessions whilst remaining focused & analytical. I believe that therapy should be a safe space where you can show up exactly as you are & be met with warmth & compassion.
(07) 2100 4001 View (07) 2100 4001
In Bloom Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
In particular, therapy is provided for trauma, anxiety, life transitions and adjustment issues, grief/loss, OCD, Autism, self-esteem issues, perfectionism and people pleasing, depression, work stress, burnout and chronic pain.
Face to face therapy is offered at the peaceful Abbotsford Convent or telehealth is available. Psychological assessments are provided to help people to understand underlying causes for issues and how to recover. The whole person is considered and therapy is tailored and evidence-based, with a specialty in providing a trauma sensitive approach.
In particular, therapy is provided for trauma, anxiety, life transitions and adjustment issues, grief/loss, OCD, Autism, self-esteem issues, perfectionism and people pleasing, depression, work stress, burnout and chronic pain.
Face to face therapy is offered at the peaceful Abbotsford Convent or telehealth is available. Psychological assessments are provided to help people to understand underlying causes for issues and how to recover. The whole person is considered and therapy is tailored and evidence-based, with a specialty in providing a trauma sensitive approach.
0410 600 940 View 0410 600 940
Melbourne Art Therapy Studio
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Melbourne Art Therapy Studio is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment that enhances the mental health and well-being of our participants. We assist people with getting to understand, know and like themselves. We prioritise the health and safety of our participants and staff to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Our art therapists are professionally registered with the Australian Art Therapy Association. Robyn is professionally registered as a therapist and supervisor with Anzacata (Australian and New Zealand Creative Arts Therapy Association) and ACA.
Melbourne Art Therapy Studio is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment that enhances the mental health and well-being of our participants. We assist people with getting to understand, know and like themselves. We prioritise the health and safety of our participants and staff to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Our art therapists are professionally registered with the Australian Art Therapy Association. Robyn is professionally registered as a therapist and supervisor with Anzacata (Australian and New Zealand Creative Arts Therapy Association) and ACA.
0438 206 842 View 0438 206 842
Connie Sandra Kellett
Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
We provide support that’s tailored, evidence-informed and effective — sessions are neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ affirming.
Hi, I’m Connie Kellett—an individual, couples, and family counsellor. At Adaptation Consulting we create a space where your identity, story, and experiences are valued. There’s no one ‘right way’ to do therapy—only what works for you. We work with a range of modalities including Narrative Therapy and CBT and collaborate with our clients to find the best pathway for them.
We provide support that’s tailored, evidence-informed and effective — sessions are neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ affirming.
Hi, I’m Connie Kellett—an individual, couples, and family counsellor. At Adaptation Consulting we create a space where your identity, story, and experiences are valued. There’s no one ‘right way’ to do therapy—only what works for you. We work with a range of modalities including Narrative Therapy and CBT and collaborate with our clients to find the best pathway for them.
0409 334 842 View 0409 334 842
Sheyan Gunapala
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am trained in the assessment of Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Difficulties.
I provide diagnostic assessments to children 6yr+ & Counselling services to individuals aged 15yrs+. I have a keen interest in working with Men, Sri Lankan/South Asians and Neurodiverse Individuals. Some of the presentations I can support you with are depression, anxiety (generalised and social), anger, addictive behaviours, excessive gaming and perinatal anxiety and depression. I also have an interest in supporting clients through life transitions, grief and relationship difficulties.
I am trained in the assessment of Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Difficulties.
I provide diagnostic assessments to children 6yr+ & Counselling services to individuals aged 15yrs+. I have a keen interest in working with Men, Sri Lankan/South Asians and Neurodiverse Individuals. Some of the presentations I can support you with are depression, anxiety (generalised and social), anger, addictive behaviours, excessive gaming and perinatal anxiety and depression. I also have an interest in supporting clients through life transitions, grief and relationship difficulties.
(03) 9071 2428 View (03) 9071 2428
Emma Schubert
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Whether you've seen many therapists in your time or this is your first venture into the world of therapy, I am here to support you. Finding a psychologist can be a daunting process. For this reason, I will provide a calm, relaxed, enjoyable and welcoming environment for you, and will take the process at your pace. I see adults and young children, and my previous experience as a dancer and teacher brings forth a warm and educational experience to the therapy room.
Whether you've seen many therapists in your time or this is your first venture into the world of therapy, I am here to support you. Finding a psychologist can be a daunting process. For this reason, I will provide a calm, relaxed, enjoyable and welcoming environment for you, and will take the process at your pace. I see adults and young children, and my previous experience as a dancer and teacher brings forth a warm and educational experience to the therapy room.
(03) 7003 2479 View (03) 7003 2479
Emma Gordon Williams Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide inclusive therapy for: - Anxiety and depression - Grief, loss and trauma - Conflict - Broken trust and betrayal - Sex and intimacy issues - Navigating big life decisions - Parenting difficulties - Navigating ADHD (VAST) and Autism.
I have a Master of Counselling, with a specialisation in couples/relationships therapy, training in family therapy, and years of experience working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and with a diverse range of life experiences.
I provide inclusive therapy for: - Anxiety and depression - Grief, loss and trauma - Conflict - Broken trust and betrayal - Sex and intimacy issues - Navigating big life decisions - Parenting difficulties - Navigating ADHD (VAST) and Autism.
I have a Master of Counselling, with a specialisation in couples/relationships therapy, training in family therapy, and years of experience working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and with a diverse range of life experiences.
0498 530 280 View 0498 530 280
Melissa Thomas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Melissa has a warm, compassionate and playful nature. She aims to provide a safe, accepting and enjoyable space to connect authentically with clients. She supports her clients to uncover their hopes for the future, and to understand the internal and external barriers to their personal and relational growth.
Melissa has a warm, compassionate and playful nature. She aims to provide a safe, accepting and enjoyable space to connect authentically with clients. She supports her clients to uncover their hopes for the future, and to understand the internal and external barriers to their personal and relational growth.
0490 744 262 View 0490 744 262
Jennifer Sankaran
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028
Kristiana Brobbey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and stress.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
I am passionate about supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and stress.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028
Wonderful Mind Therapy and Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Serves Area
She is specialized in autism (assessment and support) and trauma.
Theory’s such as attachment have taught me that our peace, sense of well-being and life decisions are all dependent on our psychological needs. These needs are all shaped in the very first days of our lives. All that we needed back then was to be heard, to be loved, and to be worthy. Nikoo is a certified supervisor and provides clinical supervision.
She is specialized in autism (assessment and support) and trauma.
Theory’s such as attachment have taught me that our peace, sense of well-being and life decisions are all dependent on our psychological needs. These needs are all shaped in the very first days of our lives. All that we needed back then was to be heard, to be loved, and to be worthy. Nikoo is a certified supervisor and provides clinical supervision.
(03) 8104 9051 View (03) 8104 9051
Tegwen King
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Tegwen has particular experience supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults, including those who are late-diagnosed or exploring identity and self-understanding later in life.
Tegwen (Tee-gan) is an Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registered psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families across the lifespan. She brings a warm, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to therapy, grounded in the belief that people are experts in their own lives and deserve care that is respectful, affirming, and responsive to their individual needs. Her clinical experience spans educational, forensic, disability, private practice, and Out of Home Care (OoHC) settings, supporting individuals and families within complex personal and systemic contexts.
Tegwen has particular experience supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults, including those who are late-diagnosed or exploring identity and self-understanding later in life.
Tegwen (Tee-gan) is an Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registered psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families across the lifespan. She brings a warm, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to therapy, grounded in the belief that people are experts in their own lives and deserve care that is respectful, affirming, and responsive to their individual needs. Her clinical experience spans educational, forensic, disability, private practice, and Out of Home Care (OoHC) settings, supporting individuals and families within complex personal and systemic contexts.
0423 445 477 View 0423 445 477
Aidan Ma
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028
Olivia Fox
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I am a Clinical Psychologist committed to providing a warm and genuine therapeutic environment where clients feel safe and heard. I understand that seeking therapy is a vulnerable experience. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and authentically. My approach is collaborative and personalised. I integrate skill-building techniques with deeper exploration of the emotional challenges and vulnerabilities that shape our experiences. I believe in the power of self-discovery and work to empower clients as they take meaningful steps toward lasting change.
Hi! I am a Clinical Psychologist committed to providing a warm and genuine therapeutic environment where clients feel safe and heard. I understand that seeking therapy is a vulnerable experience. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and authentically. My approach is collaborative and personalised. I integrate skill-building techniques with deeper exploration of the emotional challenges and vulnerabilities that shape our experiences. I believe in the power of self-discovery and work to empower clients as they take meaningful steps toward lasting change.
0432 716 573 View 0432 716 573
Megan Higgo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Megan supports adolescents (15+) and adults to feel seen, understood, and reconnected with their authentic self. She understands that starting therapy can feel daunting, and prioritises creating a safe, inclusive and compassionate space where you feel genuinely welcomed and respected. Megan practices across two locations, with Mondays and Fridays at Eat Love Live in Collingwood, and at Fernhills Clinic on Tuesdays.
Megan supports adolescents (15+) and adults to feel seen, understood, and reconnected with their authentic self. She understands that starting therapy can feel daunting, and prioritises creating a safe, inclusive and compassionate space where you feel genuinely welcomed and respected. Megan practices across two locations, with Mondays and Fridays at Eat Love Live in Collingwood, and at Fernhills Clinic on Tuesdays.
(03) 9087 8379 View (03) 9087 8379
Caitlynn Ashton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Caitlynn. Many of the people I work with appear capable and put-together on the outside, yet internally feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or highly self-critical. They may find themselves overthinking, struggling to switch off, putting others' needs first, or repeating patterns in relationships that leave them feeling stuck. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing, and develop a different relationship with yourself. Together, we explore the underlying patterns contributing to your difficulties while also finding practical ways to navigate thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Hi, I’m Caitlynn. Many of the people I work with appear capable and put-together on the outside, yet internally feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or highly self-critical. They may find themselves overthinking, struggling to switch off, putting others' needs first, or repeating patterns in relationships that leave them feeling stuck. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing, and develop a different relationship with yourself. Together, we explore the underlying patterns contributing to your difficulties while also finding practical ways to navigate thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
0433 049 908 View 0433 049 908
Anthony Smith
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a registered clinical psychologist, I have worked across both public and private mental health settings. I work with adults and believe deeply in people’s capacity to grow, adapt, and move toward a more fulfilling life. My work is centred on the therapeutic relationship, and I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported. I provide evidence-based therapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and grief and loss. I also work with clients around sexual functioning, sexual health, and problematic sexual behaviours.
As a registered clinical psychologist, I have worked across both public and private mental health settings. I work with adults and believe deeply in people’s capacity to grow, adapt, and move toward a more fulfilling life. My work is centred on the therapeutic relationship, and I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported. I provide evidence-based therapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and grief and loss. I also work with clients around sexual functioning, sexual health, and problematic sexual behaviours.
(03) 7003 2993 View (03) 7003 2993
Autism Therapists
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.